What’s better than a bikini to wear on a hot summer day? A crocheted bikini top that you made yourself, of course!
Crochet bikini tops are a popular trend in swimwear that combines the art of crochet with the style and comfort of a bikini. They are perfect for those who want to add a touch of handmade charm to their swimwear collection.
They are also a great option for those who want to stand out at the beach or pool. The crochet patterns used to create these bikinis can range from simple to more complex and intricate designs.Â
Whether you’re lounging on the beach or taking a dip in the pool, a crochet bikini top is sure to turn heads and make a statement. With these free crochet bikini top patterns we’ve gathered for you, you can create the perfect bikini top for you!
Why Crochet a Bikini Top?
Crochet bikini tops are a popular trend in swimwear for several reasons. Making your own crochet bikini top creates a one-of-a-kind bikini that is different from anything you would find in a store.
These projects are highly customizable, so you can choose just the color and stitch pattern you like, and even create your own unique designs. You can also adjust the fit of the bikini to your body.
Crochet bikini tops are very comfortable to wear. The crochet material is breathable and dries quickly, making it ideal for swimming and lounging.
Making your own bikini can be a cost-effective option compared to buying one from a store, especially if you already have the materials needed.
How to Crochet a Bikini
Crocheted bikini tops are typically made starting with the cups, which are shaped with increases and decreases to make the cup the size and shape you need.
Once that’s done the cups are joined to each other and a band may be added at the bottom of the bikini top for extra support. Then you will crochet straps to go over the shoulders and around the back so the top stays on your body.
Tips for Crocheting a Bikini Top
Crocheting a bikini top can be a fun and creative project, but it requires attention to the details before, during, and after stitching to ensure your project is a success. Here are some tips to help you successfully crochet a bikini top.
First, consider your yarn. Many bikini tops use cotton yarn because it is durable when wet. It can get heavy and stretch when wet, though, so make sure if you are planning to get your bikini top wet that it is worked at a tight gauge.
You can also use yarns with synthetic materials that are made for use in swimwear, or yarn with elastic content to help your bikini stay where it needs to be.
Getting the correct gauge and having accurate measurements of the parts of your body you want to cover are essential in getting the right fit.
To make sure your project doesn’t stretch when you launder it, consider hand washing even if the yarn you used is machine washable.
Adding Fabric Lining to a Crochet Bikini Top
Crochet swimsuits and bikini tops are fun to stitch, but they don’t always give the level of coverage and support you might like.
Adding a fabric lining to a crochet bikini top can provide extra coverage, as well as helping to prevent the crochet stitches from stretching or becoming misshapen. It also can provide more comfort and confidence when wearing the bikini top.
Here’s how you can add fabric lining to your crochet bikini top:
- Cut the lining out of the fabric according to the pattern or trace your crocheted cups, leaving a little extra fabric around the sides for a seam allowance.
- Fold the seam allowance to the back side of the fabric and pin the lining to the inside of the crochet bikini top, making sure that the edges match up.
- Sew the lining to the top using a sewing machine or by hand. Use a zigzag stitch or a stretch stitch to ensure the fabric can stretch with the crochet top.
- Try on the bikini top to make sure that the linen is comfortable and fits properly.
Supplies Needed to Crochet a Bikini Top
Yarn for Bikini Tops
When choosing a yarn for a crochet bikini top, there are several qualities to look for to ensure that the finished garment is comfortable, supportive, and long-lasting.
Look for a yarn that is suitable for summer wear and can withstand exposure to water and sunlight. This means choosing a yarn that is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.
Cotton, linen, and bamboo yarns are all good options for crochet bikinis, as they are soft and comfortable against the skin.
It is also important to choose a yarn that has good elasticity and stretch, this makes the bikini top stay in place and hold its shape over time.
Synthetic yarns such as spandex or blends of natural and synthetic fiber can provide the necessary stretch and support to ensure a good fit.
With all that in mind, here are some of the most used and loved yarns used in making bikini tops.
(1) Super fine
(2) Sport
(3) DK
(4) Worsted
Notions and Tools Needed to Crochet a Bikini Top
In addition to your yarn, you’ll need a few other supplies to successfully crochet a bikini top:
- Crochet hook: It is recommended to use a hook that is one or two sizes smaller than the recommended hook size for the yarn to ensure that the fabric is tight and does not stretch too much.
- A yarn needle should have a large eye and a blunt tip to prevent it from snagging or damaging the crochet stitches. This is key for weaving in ends and sewing pieces together if needed.
- Stitch markers: Bikini top cups are often worked from the center out in rounds, and a stitch marker will help you see where the end of the round is.
- Scissors: A small pair of scissors is helpful for accuracy in cutting yarn.
- Tape measure: You’ll need to measure yourself and your project to ensure a good fit.
Crochet Bikini After-Care Tips
A crochet bikini is a beautiful and unique summer garment that can provide years of enjoyment and use when cared for properly. To keep your crochet bikini looking its best and to ensure that it lasts for many seasons, it’s important to follow these after-care tips.
- Hand washing is best. To maintain the shape and integrity of your crochet bikini, it's best to hand wash it in cool water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents, as these can damage the crochet material.
- Rinse thoroughly. Make sure to rinse your bikini thoroughly to remove all traces of soap and detergent (as well as chlorine or salt). This will help prevent irritation the next time you wear the garment.
- Lay flat to dry. To dry your crochet bikini, lay it flat on a clean towel and shape it into its desired form. Avoid writing or twisting the bikini as it can cause stretching.
- Check for wear and tear. Regularly check your bikini for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or stretching. If you notice any issues, it may be time to repair or replace your bikini.
Crocheting a bikini top is a fun project for stitchers of any skill level and is a great addition to your beach, pool, or festival wardrobe.
If you need any help with the stitches or techniques used in these free crochet bikini top patterns, check out our Crochet Fundamentals workshop. This collection of video lessons will help you with the basics and beyond, so you can make any project you want with confidence. Even bikini tops!
Crochet Bikini Top Patterns for Beginners
Crochet bikini tops are a fun and creative way for you to make your own swimwear. Here’s a wide range of beginner-friendly patterns and styles available you can choose from.
Classic Triangle Bikini Top
Designer: Noellebelle Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ’n Cream
This easy pattern is worked in double crochet stitches with chains for the straps, so it’s perfect for beginners. It comes in five sizes and includes instructions for altering the size and adding optional fringe along the bottom for a boho look.
Muy Caliente Bikini Top
Designer: What About Yarn
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Scheepjes Cotton 8
This easy pattern is worked in double crochet and you can just keep working the cups until they are the size you need. The traps are integrated into the body, leaving you fewer ends to weave in.
Sunshine Bikini Top
Designer: Maya Luna Corazon, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Alize Diva Stretch
This pretty bikini top has a little shell stitch edging to amp up the boho look. It’s perfect for beginners and includes a video tutorial if you need more help making this fun top.
The Basic Bikini
Designer: Sophia Prinz, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (4) Aran
Suggested yarn: Berroco Remix
Linked double crochet stitches are used to make this easy-to-customize bikini top, where you work the cups and then add the straps. Snaps are used at the back to help ensure a good fit.
Lilac Beach Bralette
Designer: Crochet with Kim
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Ice Yarns Lorena Worsted
One of the problems with many crochet bikini top patterns is that they aren’t designed with plus-sized bodies in mind, but this one is. The pattern is worked up using basic crochet stitches and has lots of details on how to alter the sizing to suit your needs.
Basic Crochet Bralette
Designer: Beanies and Weenies
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ’n Cream
This basic bikini was designed with the Fourth of July in mind, but you can stitch it up to wear whenever the weather is warm. It uses basic stitches and was designed to fit a B cup, but you can alter it as needed to fit.
Perfect Beginner Bando
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ’n Cream
This little top uses single crochet stitches and has a sweet picot edging. The designer worked it up at a music festival, which is also a great place to wear it!
Patons Bikini
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Patons Grace
If you’re looking for a bikini top you can crochet along with a matching bottom, this is a great option for beginners. The top comes in three sizes and has a fun scalloped edge, while the bottom is considered one size fits most and could be altered to fit.
Simply Cute Crochet Bikini Top
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
This easy bikini top pattern uses single crochet for the cups along with a picot edging worked in a contrasting color. The pattern includes a video tutorial if you need extra help with the shaping of the cups.
Watermelon Bikini
Designer: See Love Share
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Scheepjes Cahlista
What better represents summer than watermelon? This cute bikini top was inspired by a summer top worn by Megan Markle. It’s very easy to make as it only uses basic crochet stitches.
Crochet Bikini Top Patterns for Intermediate Crocheters
If you have a little more experience as a crocheter or want to boost your skills by working on a crochet bikini top pattern, these projects are for you!
Santorini Striped Bikini
Designer: Stella Taubenheim, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Cascade Yarns Fixation
While looking forward to your next summer getaway, make yourself a new bikini top in single crochet stripes. While the designer was inspired by the colors of Santorini, you can customize your own using your favorite colors.
Bikini Top
Designer: Handmade by Phanessa
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ’n CreamÂ
The main part of the cups of this bikini top uses single crochet, so it’s easy to make and adjust to the size you need. A decorative edging and chain cords long enough to tie in the back finish off this piece.
Simple Bikini Top
Designer: Chiyembekezo Kadangwe, via RavelryÂ
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: Patons GraceÂ
It’s easy to get a good fit using this pattern because the cups are worked horizontally, giving a snug fit with a bit of lift. The pattern includes a chart for sizes 32A to 36 DD+ and uses single crochet stitches.
Reversible Wrap Around Bikini Top
Designer: Jenny and Teddy
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Make yourself this fun and unique reversible wrap-around bikini top that you can crochet in around an hour. This top is worked up using single crochet stitch back loop and the cups extend to wrap around the body.
Colorful Bikini
Designer: Beautiful Crochet Stuff
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Alize BellaÂ
Add an extra bit of summer flair to your wardrobe with this striped bikini top and bottom set. They use simple stitches and come in four sizes, and you can make them in a single color or as many hues as you like.
Surfers Paradise Bikini Top
Designer: Cuddlepod, via RavelryÂ
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: Cascade Yarns FixationÂ
This pattern, worked in hdc stitches, is a great blank canvas that’s easy to modify for your size and style. It comes in four sizes but explores how to make it different sizes and adjust to make it a bikini, bralette or bra style top.
Ariel Bikini Top
Designer: The Little Treasure
Yarn weight: : (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: Patons Grace
The clusters of stitches used on this bikini means it offers less coverage than a lot of the patterns we have shared, but it’s sure to keep you cool wherever you wear it! You can also add a fabric lining as described above and/or make the cups larger if you’d like more coverage.
Vibrant Crochet Bikini Top
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Yarn weight: (2) SportÂ
Suggested yarn: Ice Yarns Camilla Cotton
The secret to this eye-catching top is the use of colorful elastic woven through the edges to add a pop of color and ensure a perfect fit that doesn’t shift when you get it wet. The pattern includes a video tutorial if you need help with the finishing, and there’s a pattern for a matching bottom, too.
The Sassy Summer Bikini
Designer: Yarnutopia
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton Â
Here’s a full-coverage two-piece suit for you to wear this summer. This stylish and playful bikini pattern includes a video tutorial, and the suit is fully lined for extra coverage.
Waterfront Bikini
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: DROPS Safran
This free crochet bikini top pattern is perfect for the beach or pool. It features a beautiful lace edging design that is both stylish and comfortable, making it the perfect choice for crocheters who want to create a one-of-a-kind swimwear accessory.
Vanina Bikini Top
Designer: DROPS DesignÂ
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: DROPS SafranÂ
If you love the look of granny squares, here’s a perfect free crochet pattern for you! The pattern includes a diagram on how to crochet the granny squares in different sizes.
Betty Bralette Bikini Top
Designer: The Knotty Lace Â
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ Â
Suggested yarn: Cascade Fixation Â
Whip up this ‘50s-inspired bikini top in just a couple of hours. All you need to know to crochet this bikini top are some basic crochet stitches like single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), and half double crochet (hdc) and it comes in six sizes.
Crochet Halter Bikini Top Patterns
Is there anything more gorgeous and classic than a crochet halter bikini top? Learn how to crochet these trendy tops that are perfect for the pool, the beach, or anywhere else you might go on a warm day.
Mediterranean Love
Designer: DROPS DesignÂ
Yarn weight: (2) SportÂ
Suggested yarn: Garnstudio DROPS SafranÂ
The mesh design on this halter top makes it cool and comfortable to wear, while still providing good coverage. This bikini top is super wearable even if you are not at the beach or pool, and the back is closed with a button for an easy fit.
Micaela Bikini Top
Designer: DROPS DesignÂ
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: DROPS Muskat
This full-coverage top is super sweet thanks to the lacy edging along the bottom. This bikini halter top is easy to make and can be easily customized to any size. There’s also a coordinating pair of shorts to make if you want a full free crochet bikini pattern.
Hannah Festival Bikini Top
Designer: Kristin Omdahl
Yarn weight: (2) SportÂ
Suggested yarn: Alize Diva Plus
Here’s an adorable bikini top that features a delicate floral motif. You start with crocheting the flower, then work stitches out to form the bust.
The Earth Mother Bralette
Designer: Carroway CrochetÂ
Yarn weight:(4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Stripes
Whip up this funky, retro-style bralette that you can wear to festivals or when lounging at the beach. The mesh keeps it cool even though this is a heavier weight yarn, and the pattern comes in five sizes.
Oh My Bikini
Designer: Jenny and TeddyÂ
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 CottonÂ
This pretty halter top features mesh at the top and a horizontal rib pattern along the body that’s achieved by working stitches in the back loop. You can easily make it wider on longer for a little more coverage if you want.
Breezy Summer Crochet Halter Top
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Home Maker Dec
This fun and colorful top was stitched up using T-shirt yarn, which isn’t the best for swimming, but it is perfect for keeping cool on a hot day. Make yours in several colors as shown or stick with a single color as you like.
Peek-A-Boo Halter Top
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ’n CreamÂ
The lace-up loop at the front of this top adds cuteness and helps hold the cups where you want them to be. The pattern has lots of options for modification of the length, straps, and other details.
Sunny Side Up Bikini Top
Designer: Nomad Stitches, via RavelryÂ
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Scheepjes Catona
Get coverage and coolness at the same time with this halter top crochet pattern that includes more solid stitches where you need them and a bit of openwork where you don’t. The color blocking adds an extra element but you could also stitch it up in a single color.
Boho-Themed Crochet Bikini Top Patterns
Boho-themed bikini tops are perfect for wearing to festivals as well as at the beach, pool, or anywhere else you might be heading when the weather is warm. Check out these boho patterns that incorporate lace, tassels, and other fun details to give them a delightfully retro look.
Queenie BikiniÂ
Designer: Paintbox YarnsÂ
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
The lace panel on the bodice of this bikini is boho perfection, and you can work more repeats if you want more coverage in your top. The pattern includes a matching bottom.
Bikini Top with Tassels
Designer: DROPS DesignÂ
Yarn weight: (2) SportÂ
Suggested yarn: DROPS Safran
The cups on this top are worked separately in double crochet and joined with the triangular mesh section at the bottom. Finish it off with tassels and wooden beads for the perfect boho look.
Sophia Crop Top
Designer: Crochet with Carrie
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Dishie
The single crochet cups on this top provide full coverage, while the picot edging and lace band give this pattern plenty of boho charm. A video tutorial is included in case any of the techniques are new to you.
Sand Dollar Bikini Top
Designer: Gleeful Things
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: Sirdar Snuggly Replay DK
The details on this top are so much fun, from the way the cups are shaped to the shell edging. You can choose a ruffle or fringe along the bottom. It also includes instructions for lining the top. This pattern includes sizes from XS to XL.
Aphra Bralette
Designer: Luisa B, via RavelryÂ
Yarn weight: (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: DROPS MuskatÂ
The cups are worked separately in DC and joined at the middle to make the fun motif and chains at the center. You can easily adjust the size by increasing the initial chain of the cups and the length of the tie.
Summer Vibes Bikini Top
Designer: Jenny and TeddyÂ
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 CottonÂ
This pattern uses simple stitches and is the perfect thing to wear to a festival or any summer outing. Three size options are available and the pattern also includes a video tutorial.
The Pretty Picot Bralette
Designer: Carroway CrochetÂ
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super SaverÂ
This bralette is great for beginners because you only need to know how to work sc and dc stitches. The picot edging is easy to do and you can add as many rows to the bottom of the bodice as you like to make it as long as you want.
Isla Fuego Festival Top
Designer: What About YarnÂ
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar’n CreamÂ
This pattern mostly uses double crochet and dc in the back loop stitches, but there are some other techniques including cross double crochet and cross treble crochet. But if you’ve never worked these stitches before, the pattern includes video tutorials to help you out.
The Weekend Getaway Bikini Top
Designer: Jenny And TeddyÂ
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Coboo
Treat yourself by crocheting an easy and cute bikini top. It uses single crochet and double crochet stitches and you can easily adjust the pattern to a different size or for more coverage.
Summer Ride
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: DROPS Safran
Pretty, colorful, and sexy, this handmade top will surely make heads turn. The cups are worked flat from one side to the other using several colors, making a good choice for more experienced crocheters.
Crochet Bikini Top Patterns with Step-By-Step Video Tutorials
Learn how to make your crochet bikini top with these step-by-step crochet video tutorials. Watch as you stitch along to make these projects quickly and easily.
Crochet Bikini Top with Flowers
Designer: Crochet by Valentina
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ’n CreamÂ
Add a little cuteness to your summer wardrobe with this bikini top that features flowers on each side of the cup. The video explains how to alter the size so you can make a top with the perfect fit for you.
Crochet Bikini Top
Designer: Sirin's CrochetÂ
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: Alize Diva Plus
Complete your summer wardrobe with this very easy and beginner-friendly project. The pattern shows how to make I-cord straps, or you can use chains for the ties if you’d rather.
Waffle Bikini Top
Designer: Dana Bold
Yarn weight: (4) WorstedÂ
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Dishie
Waffle stitch adds tons of texture wherever it is used, and it’s pretty and effective on this bikini top. Add more rows for more coverage or to make a larger size as needed.
Rice Stitch Bikini
Designer: DIY with GH CrochetÂ
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Patons Canadiana
Here’s another fun textured stitch used to great effect in this rice stitch bikini pattern. This crochet stitch uses a combination of front and back stitches, which makes a great texture and pretty tight stitches for good coverage.
Vega Bikini Top
Designer: The Happy Unraveler
Yarn weight:Â (3) DKÂ
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand TrubooÂ
This cute bikini top is super easy to stitch and great to wear to the beach or as a top anywhere else. Another video tutorial covers how to crochet the matching bikini bottom.
Are You a Beginner Crochet Who Would Like Some Help to Learn How to Crochet?
Beginner crocheters often face challenges when starting a new crochet project, especially when it comes to learning the basics of the craft. However, with the right resources and guidance, you can learn to crochet and create beautiful pieces.
That’s where the Crochet Fundamentals masterclass comes in.Â
This comprehensive online course is designed specifically for beginners who want to learn the basics of crochet and take their skills to the next level. You’ll learn everything about crochet with more than 25 professionally filmed video lessons.
Get ready and master your crochet skills and in no time you’ll be able to make your very first crochet bikini project.
Looking for More Projects to Stitch Up Fast?
One of the great things about crochet bikini tops is that they are generally pretty fast projects you can stitch up in a couple of hours.
If you’re looking for more nearly-instant gratification crochet projects, you need our Done in a Day crochet pattern bundle. This collection includes 90 of our most popular, quick to stitch projects, including bags, hats, blankets, and so much more.Â
